Our Identity & Mission

Europe is historically deeply rooted in cultural, religious and scientific exchanges with the Muslims, from even as early as the 8th century. Many European Muslim communities have a rich legacy of migration and settlement. Amongst these, the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheris, who migrated in various stages to Europe post the Second World War. They have contributed actively to the social, entrepreneurial and spiritual fabric of Europe. Hence, the establishment of CoEJ in 1991 emerged as a natural step in strengthening the institutional capacity and serving as a unifying platform for member jamaats.

Guided by its founding members, CoEJ embodies a collaborative cross-jamaat spirit for its 18 members scattered across the European mainland and the British Isles.

Timeline for The Council of European Jamaats

1991
CoEJ established, Mr Kassim Manji first president
1993
CoEJ's First constitution is adopted
1994
European Hajj mission initiates best in class Hajj services
2000
1st Mulla Asghar Memorial Tournament organised
2001
Sweden Youth Camps, nurturing the servants of tomorrow
2008
CoEJ becomes World Federations member and the official umbrella body for all European Jamaats
2024
Lisbon Jamaat becomes latest member to join CoEJ

CoEJ Office Bearers through Time

Term President Vice President Hon Treasurer Hon Asst Treasurer Secretary General Asst Secretary General
1991 Kassim Manji
1992–1995 Kassim Manji
1996–2001 Jaffer Dharamsi
2001–2004 Dr Anwer Dhanji
2004–2006 Mahmood Hooda
2006–2009 Munawwer Rattansi
2009–2012 Dr Husein Jiwa Gulamhussein Sumar Mohamed Mavani Mohamedkazim Bhaloo Mohamed Dawood Esmat Jeraj
2012–2015 Dr Husein Jiwa Dr Akber Mohamedali Mahmood Dawood
2015–2018 Dr Akber Mohamedali Dr Husein Jiwa Abbas Khakoo
2018–2021 Dr Akber Mohamedali Mahmood Hooda Mohamed H. Visram Arif Hiridjee Murtaza Bharwani Tawfiq Jivraj
2021–2024 Salim Rehmatullah Murtaza Kanani Mohammed Ali Muraj Naime Vally
2021–23 Sabira Lakha
2023–24 Azmina Hansraj
2021–23 Farhan Jamal
2023–24 Nawal Jeraj

Working together across Europe

18 member Jamaats • Cross-generation leadership • Unity, growth, sustainability

Explore Boards & Initiatives →